The Use of Electronic Notification Systems (e-Notification system) for Registering Births and Deaths: Findings from a Developing Country

Abstract

Health organisations are increasingly investing in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) for benefits related to work process optimisation. One of these is the timely registration of births and deaths through an electronic system called the e-Notification systems. The purpose of this study is therefore to assess the extent at which an e-Notification system is being used in developing countries using the Katima Mulilo State Hospital as a case study. The study will also ascertain the benefits and drawbacks the hospital is currently experiencing with the introduction of the new system. To attain the main objective, a quantitative approach was adopted in this research. Data was collected from Katima Mulilo hospital nurses and doctors through survey questionnaires. Findings of the study revealed that the system is easy to use, the operating staff handling the systems are trained and there is an availability of technicians who handles the maintenance of the system. However, there are concerns of inadequate infrastructure. Recommendations to provide sufficient computers and improve the ICT infrastructure are outlined.